Sinus infections, also called sinusitis, are one of the most common reasons people visit urgent care, especially during cold and flu season. Symptoms like facial pressure, nasal congestion, headaches, and post-nasal drip can make you feel miserable. But one question many patients ask is: Are sinus infections contagious? The answer depends on the type of sinus infection you have. Some infections caused by viruses can spread to others, while bacterial infections are usually not contagious. Understanding the difference is key to protecting yourself and those around you.
For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9. Our team is available 7 days a week to treat patients of all ages. Simply walk in or save time by planning your visit below.
Viral Sinus Infections: The Contagious Kind
Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, the same ones that trigger colds or the flu. Viral sinus infections develop after a common cold when nasal passages swell and block drainage. Are they contagious? Yes. The viruses that lead to sinus infections can spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. While you can’t “catch” a sinus infection directly, you can catch the virus that leads to it. This type of sinusitis typically improves within 7 to 10 days without antibiotics. Common symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, facial pressure, headache, sore throat, fatigue, and sometimes a mild fever.
Bacterial Sinus Infections: Typically Not Contagious
A bacterial sinus infection usually develops when a viral infection doesn’t fully resolve, and bacteria begin to grow in the blocked sinuses. Bacterial sinus infections themselves are not contagious. You can’t spread the bacteria from your sinuses to another person. They often last longer than 10 days or get worse after initial improvement. Without antibiotic treatment, they can linger for weeks. Common symptoms of bacterial sinusitis include severe facial pain or pressure, thick yellow or green nasal discharge, fever, tooth pain, and symptoms lasting longer than 10 days.
How Sinus Infections Spread
Even though bacterial sinus infections aren’t contagious, both viral and bacterial sinus infections often begin with a contagious virus. The flu, colds, and other upper respiratory viruses spread through:
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Direct contact such as shaking hands
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
To reduce your risk of catching or spreading viral infections that lead to sinusitis, be sure to wash your hands regularly, avoid close contact with people who are sick, cover coughs and sneezes, stay hydrated, and get your annual flu shot.
When To Seek Medical Care For a Sinus Infection
Most sinus infections improve with home care like rest, hydration, nasal saline sprays, and over-the-counter decongestants. However, you should visit an urgent care center if you experience:
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
- Severe headache, facial pain, or swelling
- High fever
- Vision changes or swelling around the eyes
- Symptoms that improve, then suddenly get worse again
A provider can determine whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial and recommend the best treatment. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections.
Get Fast Relief For Sinus Infections at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9 in Elizabeth, NJ
Whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial, our urgent care team can help you find relief. We provide on-site evaluation, treatment plans, and prescriptions when necessary– all without the wait of a primary care appointment. Our center is open 7 days a week and 365 days a year, allowing all patients and families in the Elizabeth, NJ area to receive quality care when they need it most. We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sinus infection treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 570-5801.
